Encourage outdoor play with this engaging DIY dinosaur garden, crafted by Jennifer Perkins. Like a fairy garden with a prehistoric twist—think sharp-toothed dinos and lava rocks—this project transforms your backyard into an immersive play zone using simple hardware store supplies and an afternoon of hands-on work.
Jennifer Perkins
Tools and materials:
Jennifer Perkins
Lay the pond liner on the plywood and trace its bottom outline—not the top. This ensures the rim sits above the surface, recessing the planter nicely into the plywood table.
Jennifer Perkins
Drill a starter hole for the puzzle saw, then cut out the traced circle. Sand and trim as needed for a snug fit, leaving extra room around the edges for the synthetic grass.
Jennifer Perkins
Once the hole is ready, position the synthetic grass rug (like Eco-Rug) slightly larger than the plywood for wrapping and securing underneath.
Jennifer Perkins
Wrap the grass around the plywood edges and staple securely from below. This softens the table's edges for little ones and creates a lush green base perfect for herbivorous dinosaurs.
Jennifer Perkins
With the grass taut, flip the plywood and cut an asterisk shape in the center over the liner hole. Fold the flaps down, staple them in place, and trim excess for a clean opening.
Jennifer Perkins
Elevate the table on cement blocks for kid-friendly height and stability. Secure the plywood to the blocks with a strong outdoor adhesive.
Jennifer Perkins
Source child-safe materials from your garden center. Layer textures with play sand, mulch, dirt, and hardy plants like tall grasses and irises to engage young senses.
Jennifer Perkins
Jennifer Perkins
Incorporate lava rocks for toy truck paths—kids love painting their own. Leave open spaces for imagination, adding shells, geodes, pinecones, and more as play prompts.
Jennifer Perkins
Top it off with weather-resistant toy dinosaurs. Adapt for safaris or rainforests by swapping figures—keeping the play fresh and fun for growing adventurers.
The garden won't stay pristine (it's made for kids!), so stock extras for easy refreshes.
